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Tamatha
Barbeau, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Biology Coordinator: Veterinary Studies Program Coordinator: Program for Undergraduate Research (PURE) |
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Research
Interests
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I have several research
interests. The first is the reproductive and endocrine system of ectotherms
such as amphibians and fish. In addition to this, I investigate how
exposure of ectotherms to environmental contaminants affects the
reproductive and endocrine systems. Frog populations are reported to
be declining in various regions of the world. Many frog populations have also been reported to
have dramatic developmental deformities, such as extra or even missing limbs (see pic on right). Many factors are
implicated in these declines and deformities. They include habitat loss
from human encroachment, habitat degradation by pesticides, herbicides,
and agricutural fertilizers, parasite infections, and even exposure
to ultraviolet radiation. Click on the link below to read more. I am also interested
in the physiological adaptations of amphibians to arboreal habitats
(pic on lower right). Click on the link below to read more.
If you are interested
in participating in a research project you should contact me to discuss
it. Independent research projects for credit are available to students
that have previously participated (volunteered) for a semester, or for
students enrolled in the Honors Program at FMU. Research can
be a fun and valuable experience, and teach you how to apply biological
concepts you learn in your classrooms to actual scientific studies.
Contact
Me |
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A
d eformed bullfrog (missing right hind leg) collected from a eutrophic
pond in Florida.
One of my research animals, the Pig frog (Rana grylio)
Some of my undergraduate researchers that braved the swamps at night looking for frogs! |
Written by Tamatha Barbeau, 2004. This web site is for educational purposes; if you own an image on this site and would like it removed or used with permission, or if you have comments, corrections, or suggestions, please contact me.